[SAN DIEGO, Calif.] — The University of Northern Iowa men’s basketball team is gearing up for their first-round game in the NCAA Tournament. The Panthers are eager to make a significant impact in the tournament.

At a press conference, team members shared how overcoming challenges has helped them succeed this season.

“Every player had to step up at different times,” said sophomore forward Will Hornseth. “We did face some injuries throughout the year and that just gave opportunities to other people to fill different roles and really fill out our team. That’s a real advantage. Different players have played different positions. We’re more versatile because of it.”

UNI, seeded 12th, will face fifth-seeded Saint John’s in the opening round tomorrow night in San Diego, California. The game is set to begin at 6:10 p.m. Iowa time.